The World Health Organisation (WHO), on Monday, releases a crucial technical brief on encephalitis, a serious neurological condition marked by brain inflammation.
The report highlights the urgent need for global awareness and action, as encephalitis affects individuals of all ages and can lead to severe long-term complications.
In a report made public on the organisation’s website, the Head of the Brain Health Unit at WHO, Dr. Tarun Dua states, “Encephalitis is a growing public health challenge, and by prioritizing it within global and national health agendas and strengthening collaboration, we can reduce its impact and save lives,” he added. “These efforts will not only improve health outcomes and quality of life for those affected and their families but also result in stronger more resilient health systems.”
The brief reveals that encephalitis was the fourth leading cause of neurological health loss in children under five in 2021, and the thirteenth across all age groups. It emphasises the various pathogens responsible, including herpes simplex virus and autoimmune encephalitis, which is increasingly recognised.
The report also addresses the barriers to care, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, where access to treatment and rehabilitation remains limited. “People living with encephalitis face discrimination and human rights violations,” warns Dr. Dua, underscoring the need for urgent action.
The WHO’s technical brief outlines essential care pathways, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention strategies, including vaccination and vector control. It aims to foster collaboration among health systems to improve outcomes for those affected.
As climate change and population density contribute to the rising incidence of encephalitis, the WHO calls for immediate action to safeguard public health and enhance the quality of life for millions worldwide.
